9-Alkyladenine derivatives and ribose-modified N6-benzyladenosine derivatives were synthesized in an effort to identify selective ligands for the rat A3 adenosine receptor and leads for the development of antagonists. The derivatives contained structural features previously determined to be important for A3 selectivity in adenosine derivatives, such as an N6-(3-iodobenzyl) moiety, and were further substituted at the 2-position with halo, amino, or thio groups. Affinity was determined in radioligand binding assays at rat brain A3 receptors stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, using [125I]AB-MECA (N6-(4-amino-3-iodobenzyl)adenosine-5′-(N-methyluronamide)), and at rat brain A1 and A2a receptors using [3H]-N6-PIA ((R)-N6-phenylisopropyladenosine) and [3H]CGS 21680 (2-[[[4-(2-carboxyethyl)-phenyl]ethyl]amino]-5′-(N-ethylcarbamoyl)adenosine), respectively. A series of N6-(3-iodobenzyl) 2-amino derivatives indicated that a small 2-alkylamino group, e.g., methylamino, was favored at A3 receptors. N6-(3-Iodobenzyl)-9-methyl-2-(methylthio)adenine was 61-fold more potent than the corresponding 2-methoxy ether at A3 receptors and of comparable affinity at A1 and A2a receptors, resulting in a 3–6-fold selectivity for A3 receptors. A pair of chiral N6-(3-iodobenzyl) 9-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl) derivatives showed stereoselectivity, with the R-enantiomer favored at A3 receptors by 5.7-fold. 2-Chloro-9-(β-d-erythrofuranosyl)-N6-(3-iodobenzyl)adenine had a Ki value at A3 receptors of 0.28 µM. 2-Chloro-9-[2-amino-2,3-dideoxy-β-d-5-(methylcarbamoyl)-arabinofuranosyl]-N6-(3-iodobenzyl)adenine was moderately selective for A1 and A3 vs A2a receptors. A 3′-deoxy analogue of a highly A3-selective adenosine derivative retained selectivity in binding and was a full agonist in the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase mediated via cloned rat A3 receptors expressed in CHO cells. The 3′-OH and 4′-CH2OH groups of adenosine are not required for activation at A3 receptors. A number of 2′,3′-dideoxyadenosines and 9-acyclic-substituted adenines appear to inhibit adenylyl cyclase at the allosteric “P” site.

The activation of the human A3 adenosine receptor (AR) by a wide range of N6-substituted adenosine derivatives was studied in intact CHO cells stably expressing this receptor. Selectivity of binding at rat and human ARs was also determined. Among N6-alkyl substitutions, small N6-alkyl groups were associated with selectivity for human A3ARs vs. rat A3ARs, and multiple points of branching were associated with decreased hA3AR efficacy. N6-Cycloalkyl-substituted adenosines were full (≤5 carbons) or partial (≥6 carbons) hA3AR agonists. N6-(endo-Norbornyl)adenosine 13 was the most selective for both rat and human A1ARs. Numerous N6-arylmethyl analogues, including substituted benzyl, tended to be more potent in binding to A1 and A3 vs. A2AARs (with variable degrees of partial to full A3AR agonisms). A chloro substituent decreased the efficacy depending on its position on the benzyl ring. The A3AR affinity and efficacy of N6-arylethyl adenosines depended highly on stereochemistry, steric bulk, and ring constraints. Stereoselectivity of binding was demonstrated for N6-(R-1-phenylethyl)adenosine vs. N6-(S-1-phenylethyl)adenosine, as well as for the N6-(1-phenyl-2-pentyl)adenosine, at the rat, but not human A3AR. Interestingly, DPMA, a potent agonist for the A2AAR (Ki = 4 nM), was demonstrated to be a moderately potent antagonist for the human A3AR (Ki = 106 nM). N6-[(1S,2R)-2-Phenyl-1-cyclopropyl]adenosine 48 was 1100-fold more potent in binding to human (Ki = 0.63 nM) than rat A3ARs. Dual acting A1/A3 agonists (N6-3-chlorobenzyl- 29, N6-(S-1-phenylethyl)- 39, and 2-chloro-N6-(R-phenylisopropyl)adenosine 53) might be useful for cardioprotection.

We have found previously that structural features of adenosine derivatives, particularly at the N6- and 2-positions of adenine, determine the intrinsic efficacy as A3 adenosine receptor (AR) agonists. Here, we have probed this phenomenon with respect to the ribose moiety using a series of ribose-modified adenosine derivatives, examining binding affinity and activation of the human A3 AR expressed in CHO cells. Both 2′- and 3′-hydroxyl groups in the ribose moiety contribute to A3 AR binding and activation, with 2′-OH being more essential. Thus, the 2′-fluoro substitution eliminated both binding and activation, while a 3′-fluoro substitution led to only a partial reduction of potency and efficacy at the A3 AR. A 5′-uronamide group, known to restore full efficacy in other derivatives, failed to fully overcome the diminished efficacy of 3′-fluoro derivatives. The 4′-thio substitution, which generally enhanced A3 AR potency and selectivity, resulted in 5′-CH2OH analogues (10 and 12) which were partial agonists of the A3 AR. Interestingly, the shifting of the N6-(3-iodobenzyl)adenine moiety from the 1′- to 4′-position had a minor influence on A3 AR selectivity, but transformed 15 into a potent antagonist (16) (Ki = 4.3 nM). Compound 16 antagonized human A3 AR agonist-induced inhibition of cyclic AMP with a KB value of 3.0 nM. A novel apio analogue (20) of neplanocin A, was a full A3 AR agonist. The affinities of selected, novel analogues at rat ARs were examined, revealing species differences. In summary, critical structural determinants for human A3 AR activation have been identified, which should prove useful for further understanding the mechanism of receptor activation and development of more potent and selective full agonists, partial agonists and antagonists for A3 ARs.

The structure-activity relationships of 6-phenyl-1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives as selective antagonists at human A3 adenosine receptors have been explored (Jiang et al. J. Med. Chem.
1997, 39, 4667-4675). In the present study, related pyridine derivatives have been synthesized and tested for affinity at adenosine receptors in radioligand binding assays. Ki values in the nanomolar range were observed for certain 3,5-diacyl-2,4-dialkyl-6-phenylpyridine derivatives in displacement of [125I]AB-MECA (N6-(4-amino-3-iodobenzyl)-5′-N-methylcarbamoyladenosine) at recombinant human A3 adenosine receptors. Selectivity for A3 adenosine receptors was determined vs radioligand binding at rat brain A1 and A2A receptors. Structure–activity relationships at various positions of the pyridine ring (the 3- and 5-acyl substituents and the 2- and 4-alkyl substituents) were probed. A 4-phenylethynyl group did not enhance A3 selectivity of pyridine derivatives, as it did for the 4-substituted dihydropyridines. At the 2-and 4-positions ethyl was favored over methyl. Also, unlike the dihydropyridines, a thioester group at the 3-position was favored over an ester for affinity at A3 adenosine receptors, and a 5-position benzyl ester decreased affinity. Small cycloalkyl groups at the 6-position of 4-phenylethynyl-1,4-dihydropyridines were favorable for high affinity at human A3 adenosine receptors, while in the pyridine series a 6-cyclopentyl group decreased affinity. 5-Ethyl 2,4-diethyl-3-(ethylsulfanylcarbonyl)-6-phenylpyridine-5-carboxylate, 38, was highly potent at human A3 receptors, with a Ki value of 20 nM. A 4-propyl derivative, 39b, was selective and highly potent at both human and rat A3 receptors, with Ki values of 18.9 and 113 nM, respectively. A 6-(3-chlorophenyl) derivative, 44, displayed a Ki value of 7.94 nM at human A3 receptors and selectivity of 5200-fold. Molecular modeling, based on the steric and electrostatic alignment (SEAL) method, defined common pharmacophore elements for pyridine and dihydropyridine structures, e.g., the two ester groups and the 6-phenyl group. Moreover, a relationship between affinity and hydrophobicity was found for the pyridines.

We have identified a series of 1H-imidazo-[4,5-c]quinolines as selective allosteric enhancers of human A3 adenosine receptors. Several of these compounds potentiated both the potency and maximal efficacy of agonist-induced responses and selectively decreased the dissociation of the agonist N6-(4-amino-3-[125I]iodobenzyl)-5′-N-methylcarboxamidoadenosine from human A3 adenosine receptors. There was no effect on the dissociation of the antagonist [3H]8-ethyl-4-methyl-2-phenyl-(8R)-4,5,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-imidazo[2.1-i]purin-5-one (PSB-11) from the A3 receptors, as well as [3H]N6-[(R)-phenylisopropy-l]adenosine from rat brain A1 receptors and [3H]2-[p-(2-carboxyethyl)phenyl-ethylamino]-5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoad-enosine from rat striatal A2A receptors, suggesting the selective enhancement of agonist binding at A3 receptors. The analogs were tested as antagonists of competitive binding at human A3 receptors, and Ki values ranging from 120 nM to 101 μM were observed; as for many allosteric modulators of G protein-coupled receptors, an orthosteric effect was also present. The most promising leads from the present set of analogs seem to be the 2-cyclopentyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]quinoline derivatives, of which the 4-phenylamino analog DU124183 had the most favorable degree of allosteric modulation versus receptor antagonism. The inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation in intact cells that express human A3 receptors was employed as a functional index of A3 receptor activation. The enhancer DU124183 caused a marked leftward shift of the concentration-response curve of the A3 receptor agonists in the presence of antagonist and, surprisingly, a potentiation of the maximum agonist efficacy by approximately 30%. Thus, we have identified a novel structural lead for developing allosteric enhancers of A3 adenosine receptors; such enhancers may be useful for treating brain ischemia and other hypoxic conditions.

A series of ring-constrained (N)-methanocarba-5′-uronamide 2,N6-disubstituted adenine nucleosides have been synthesized via Mitsunobu condensation of the nucleobase precursor with a pseudosugar ring containing a 5′-ester functionality. Following appropriate functionalization of the adenine ring, the ester group was converted to the 5′-N-methylamide. The compounds, mainly 2-chloro substituted derivatives, were tested in both binding and functional assays at human adenosine receptors (ARs), and many were found to be highly potent and selective A3AR agonists. Selected compounds were compared in binding to the rat A3AR to assess their viability for testing in rat disease models. The N6-(3-chlorobenzyl) and N6-(3-bromobenzyl) analogues displayed Ki values at the human A3AR of 0.29 and 0.38 nM, respectively. Other subnanomolar affinities were observed for the following N6 derivatives: 2,5-dichlorobenzyl, 5-iodo-2-methoxybenzyl, trans-2-phenyl-1-cyclopropyl, and 2,2-diphenylethyl. Selectivity for the human A3AR in comparison to the A1AR was (fold): the N6-(2,2-diphenylethyl) analogue 34 (1900), the N6-(2,5-dimethoxybenzyl) analogue 26 (1200), the N6-(2,5-dichlorobenzyl) and N6-(2-phenyl-1-cyclopropyl) analogues 20 and 33 (1000), and the N6-(3-substituted benzyl) analogues 17, 18, 28, and 29 (700–900). Typically, even greater selectivity ratios were obtained in comparison with the A2A and A2BARs. The (N)-methanocarba-5′-uronamide analogues were full agonists at the A3AR, as indicated by the inhibition of forskolin-stimluated adenylate cyclase at a concentration of 10 µM. The N6-(2,2-diphenylethyl) derivative was an A3AR agonist in the (N)-methanocarba-5′-uronamide series, although it was an antagonist in the ribose series. Thus, many of the previously known groups that enhance A3AR affinity in the 9-riboside series, including those that reducing intrinsic efficacy, may be adapted to the (N)-methanocarba nucleoside series of full agonists.

The effects of structural modifications of adenine nucleotides previously shown to enhance either agonist (2-thioether groups) or antagonist (additional phosphate moieties at the 3′- or 2′-position) properties at P2Y1 receptors were examined at recombinant rat P2X1, P2X2, P2X3, and P2X4 receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The potency of P2Y1 agonists HT-AMP (2-(hexylthio)adenosine-5′-monophosphate) and PAPET (2-[2-(4-aminophenyl)ethylthio]adenosine-5′-triphosphate) was examined at P2X receptors. Both nucleotides showed a preference for the Group I (α,β-meATP-sensitive, fast-inactivating) P2X sub-units. HT-AMP was 5-fold more potent than ATP at P2X3 receptors and a partial agonist at all except P2X2 receptors, at which it was a full agonist. The efficacy of HT-AMP was as low as 23% at P2X4 receptors. PAPET was a weak partial agonist at rat P2X4 receptors and a nearly full agonist at the other subtypes. At rat P2X3 receptors, PAPET was more potent than any other known agonist (EC50 = 17 ± 3 nM). MRS 2179 (N6-methyl-2′-deoxyadenosine 3′, 5-bisphosphate, a potent P2Y1 receptor antagonist) inhibited ATP-evoked responses at rat P2X1 receptors with an IC50 value of 1.15 ± 0.21 μM. MRS 2179 was a weak antagonist at rat P2X3 receptors, with an IC50 value of 12.9 ± 0.1 μM, and was inactive at rat P2X2 and P2X4 receptors. Thus, MRS 2179 was 11-fold and 130-fold selective for P2Y1 receptors vs. P2X1 and P2X3 receptors, respectively. MRS 2209, the corresponding 3′-deoxy-2′-phosphate isomer, was inactive at rat P2X1 receptors, thus demonstrating its greater selectivity as a P2Y1 receptor antagonist. Various adenine bisphosphates in the family of MRS 2179 containing modifications of either the adenine (P2Y1 antagonists with 2- and 6-substitutions), the phosphate (a 3′,5′-cyclic diphosphate, inactive at P2Y1 receptors), or the ribose moieties (antagonist carbocyclic analogue), were inactive at both rat P2X1 and P2X3 receptors. An anhydrohexitol derivative (MRS 2269) and an acyclic derivative (MRS 2286), proved to be selective antagonists at P2Y1 receptors, since they were inactive as agonist or antagonist at P2X1 and P2X3 receptors.

Preference for the northern (N) ring conformation of the ribose moiety of adenine nucleotide 3′,5′-bisphosphate antagonists of P2Y1 receptors was established by using a ring-constrained methanocarba (a bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane) ring as a ribose substitute (Nandanan et al. J. Med. Chem.
2000, 43, 829–842). We have now combined the ring-constrained (N)-methanocarba modification with other functionalities at the 2-position of the adenine moiety. A new synthetic route to this series of bisphosphate derivatives was introduced, consisting of phosphorylation of the pseudoribose moiety prior to coupling with the adenine base. The activity of the newly synthesized analogues was determined by measuring antagonism of 2-methylthio-ADP-stimulated phospholipase C (PLC) activity in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells expressing the recombinant human P2Y1 receptor and by using the radiolabeled antagonist [3H]2-chloro-N6-methyl-(N)-methanocarba-2′-deoxyadenosine 3′,5′-bisphosphate 5 in a newly developed binding assay in Sf9 cell membranes. Within the series of 2-halo analogues, the most potent molecule at the hP2Y1 receptor was an (N)-methanocarba N6-methyl-2-iodo analogue 12, which displayed a Ki value in competition for binding of [3H]5 of 0.79 nM and a KB value of 1.74 nM for inhibition of PLC. Thus, 12 is the most potent antagonist selective for the P2Y1 receptor yet reported. The 2-iodo group was substituted with trimethyltin, thus providing a parallel synthetic route for the introduction of an iodo group in this high-affinity antagonist. The (N)-methanocarba-2-methylthio, 2-methylseleno, 2-hexyl, 2-(1-hexenyl), and 2-(1-hexynyl) analogues bound less well, exhibiting micromolar affinity at P2Y1 receptors. An enzymatic method of synthesis of the 3′,5′-bisphosphate from the corresponding 3′-monophosphate, suitable for the preparation of a radiophosphorylated analogue, was explored.

Aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3) also known as type 5 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase has been implicated as one of the key enzymes driving the elevated intratumoral androgen levels observed in castrate resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). AKR1C3 inhibition therefore presents a rational approach to managing CRPC. Inhibitors should be selective for AKR1C3 over other AKR1C enzymes involved in androgen metabolism. We have synthesized 2-, 3-, and 4- (phenylamino)benzoic acids and identified 3-(phenylamino)benzoic acids that have nanomolar affinity and exhibit over 200-fold selectivity for AKR1C3 versus other AKR1C isoforms. The AKR1C3 inhibitory potency of the 4′-substituted 3-(phenylamino)benzoic acids shows a linear correlation with both electronic effects of substituents and the pKa of the carboxylic acid and secondary amine groups, which are interdependent These compounds may be useful in treatment and/or prevention of CRPC as well as understanding the role of AKR1C3 in endocrinology

(N)-Methanocarba nucleosides containing bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane replacement of the ribose ring previously demonstrated selectivity as A3 adenosine receptor (AR) agonists (5′-uronamides) or antagonists (5′-truncated). Here, these two series were modified in parallel at the adenine C2 position. N6-3-Chlorobenzyl-5′-N-methyluronamides derivatives with functionalized 2-alkynyl chains of varying length terminating in a reactive carboxylate, ester, or amine group were full, potent human A3AR agonists. Flexibility of chain substitution allowed the conjugation with a fluorescent cyanine dye (Cy5) and biotin, resulting in binding Ki values of 17 and 36 nM, respectively. The distal end of the chain was predicted by homology modeling to bind at the A3AR extracellular regions. Corresponding l-nucleosides were nearly inactive in AR binding. In the 5′-truncated nucleoside series, 2-Cl analogues were more potent at A3AR than 2-H and 2-F, functional efficacy in adenylate cyclase inhibition varied, and introduction of a 2-alkynyl chain greatly reduced affinity. SAR parallels between the two series lost stringency at distal positions. The most potent and selective novel compounds were amine congener 15 (Ki = 2.1 nM) and truncated partial agonist 22 (Ki = 4.9 nM).

The affinity and efficacy at four subtypes (A1, A2A, A2B and A3) of human adenosine receptors (ARs) of a wide range of 2-substituted adenosine derivatives were evaluated using radioligand binding assays and a cyclic AMP functional assay in intact CHO cells stably expressing these receptors. Similar to previous studies of the N6-position, several 2-substituents were found to be critical structural determinants for the A3AR activation. The following adenosine 2-ethers were moderately potent partial agonists (Ki, nM): benzyl (117), 3-chlorobenzyl (72), 2-(3-chlorophenyl)ethyl (41), and 2-(2-naphthyl)ethyl (130). The following adenosine 2-ethers were A3AR antagonists: 2,2-diphenylethyl, 2-(2-norbornan)ethyl, R- and S-2-phenylbutyl, and 2-(2-chlorophenyl)ethyl. 2-(S-2-Phenylbutyloxy)a-denosine as an A3AR antagonist right-shifted the concentration–response curve for the inhibition by NECA of cyclic AMP accumulation with a KB value of 212 nM, which is similar to its binding affinity (Ki = 175 nM). These 2-substituted adenosine derivatives were generally less potent at the A1AR in comparison to the A3AR, but fully efficacious, with binding Ki values over 100 nM. The 2-phenylethyl moiety resulted in higher A3AR affinity (Ki in nM) when linked to the 2-position of adenosine through an ether group (54), than when linked through an amine (310) or thioether (1960). 2-[2-(l-Naphthyl)ethyloxy]adenosine (Ki = 3.8 nM) was found to be the most potent and selective (>50-fold) A2A agonist in this series. Mixed A2A/A3AR agonists have been identified. Interestingly, although most of these compounds were extremely weak at the A2BAR, 2-[2-(2-naphthyl)ethyloxy]adenosine (EC50 = 1.4 µM) and 2-[2-(2-thienyl)-ethyloxy]adenosine (EC50 = 1.8 (M) were found to be relatively potent A2B agonists, although less potent than NECA (EC50 = 140 nM).

The phenolic group of the potent μ and κ opioid morphinan agonist/antagonists cyclorphan and butorphan was replaced by phenylamino and benzylamino groups including compounds with p-substituents in the benzene ring. These compounds are highly potent μ and κ ligands, e. g. p-methoxyphenylaminocyclorphan showing a Ki of 0.026 nM at the mu and a Ki of 0.03 nM at the kappa receptor. Phenyl carbamates and phenylureas were synthesized and investigated. Selective o-formylation of butorphan and levorphanol was achieved. This reaction opened the way to a large set of 2-substituted 3-hydroxymorphinans, including 2-hydroxymethyl-, 2-aminomethyl-, and N-substituted 2-aminomethyl-3-hydroxymorphinans. Bivalent ligands bridged in the 2-position were also synthesized and connected with secondary and tertiary aminomethyl groups, amide bonds or hydroxymethylene groups, respectively. Although most of the 2-substituted morphinans showed considerably lower affinities compared to their parent compounds, the bivalent ligand approach led to significantly higher affinities compared to the univalent aminomethylmorphinans.

We modified a series of (N)-methanocarba nucleoside 5 -uronamides to contain dialkyne groups on an extended adenine C2 substituent, as synthetic intermediates leading to potent and selective A3 adenosine receptor (AR) agonists. The proximal alkyne was intended to promote receptor recognition, and the distal alkyne reacted with azides to form triazole derivatives (click cycloaddition). Click chemistry was utilized to couple an octadiynyl A3AR agonist to azido-containing fluorescent, chemically reactive, biotinylated, and other moieties with retention of selective binding to the A3AR. A bifunctional thiol-reactive crosslinking reagent was introduced. The most potent and selective novel compound was a 1-adamantyl derivative (Ki 6.5 nM), although some of the click products had Ki values in the range of 200–400 nM. Other potent, selective derivatives (Ki at A3AR in nM) were intended as possible receptor affinity labels: 3-nitro-4-fluorophenyl (10.6), α-bromophenacyl (9.6), thiol-reactive isothiazolone (102), and arylisothiocyanate (37.5) derivatives. The maximal functional effects in inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP were measured, indicating that this class of click adducts varied from partial to full A3AR agonist compared to other widely used agonists. Thus, this strategy provides a general chemical approach to linking potent and selective A3AR agonists to reporter groups of diverse structure and to carrier moieties.

The A2a adenosine receptor (AR) mediates several important physiological effects of adenosine, including vasodilation and inhibition of platelet aggregation. Until recently, no antagonist radioligand of sufficient selectivity or affinity was available. We describe the synthesis and characterization by radioligand binding of 125I-4-(2-[7-amino-2-{2-furyl}{1,2,4}triazolo{2,3-a}-{1,3,5}triazin-5-yl-amino]ethyl)phenol (125I-ZM241385) in membranes from two cell types that express A2a ARs. Membranes from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing a recombinant canine A2a AR bound 125I-ZM241385 with high affinity, and agonist competition experiments with 2-(p-carboxyethyl)-phenylamino-5′-N-carboxamidoadenosine, 5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine, and (−)-N6-[(R)-phenylisopropyl]adenosine revealed a potency order characteristic of an A2a AR binding site. Membranes from bovine striatum, which contain a native A2a AR, also bound 125I-ZM241385 with similarly high affinity and also displayed a pharmacological profile for displacement of radioligand binding that was consistent with that of an A2a AR. Also, under conditions in which 125I-ZM241385 bound with high affinity to a recombinant rat A2a AR expressed in CHO cells, no specific binding was detectable in membranes from CHO cells expressing functional rat A1, A2b, or A3 ARs, indicating that over the range of concentrations used in radioligand binding assays, 125I-ZM241385 is a highly selective antagonist radioligand for study of A2a ARs within a given species.

Two classes of 8-substituted analogs of theophylline (1,3-dialkylxanthines), having 8-cycloalkyl, 8-cycloalkenyl or 8-(para-substituted aryl) groups, were shown to be potent and, in some cases, receptor subtype selective antagonists at A1- and A2-adenosine receptors. New analogs based on a functionalized cogener approach and on classical medicinal chemical approaches were prepared. Affinity at A1-adenosine receptors was evaluated by inhibition of binding of [3H)N6-phenylisopropyladenosine to rat brain membranes. Activity at A2A-adenosine receptors was measured by the reversal of 5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA)-stimulated production of cyclic AMP in membranes from rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. Cycloalkenyl analogs containing rigid olefinic bonds differed greatly in potency from the saturated analogs. The selectivity of phenylsulfonamide analogs depended on distal structural features. Novel xanthine analogs include diamino-, thiol-, aldehyde, and halogen-substituted derivatives, peptide conjugates of 8-[4-[2-aminoethylaminocarbonylmethyloxy]phenyl]1,3-dipropylxanthine (XAC), and a hydroxyethylamide analog of XAC.

A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) ligands have been modified to optimize their interaction with the A3AR. Most of these modifications have been made to the N6 and C2 positions of adenine as well as the ribose moiety, and using a combination of these substitutions leads to the most efficacious, selective, and potent ligands. A3AR agonists such as IB-MECA and Cl-IB-MECA are now advancing into Phase II clinical trials for treatments targeting diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Also, a wide number of compounds exerting high potency and selectivity in antagonizing the human (h)A3AR have been discovered. These molecules are generally characterized by a notable structural diversity, taking into account that aromatic nitrogen-containing monocyclic (thiazoles and thiadiazoles), bicyclic (isoquinoline, quinozalines, (aza)adenines), tricyclic systems (pyrazoloquinolines, triazoloquinoxalines, pyrazolotriazolopyrimidines, triazolopurines, tricyclic xanthines) and nucleoside derivatives have been identified as potent and selective A3AR antagonists. Probably due to the “enigmatic” physiological role of A3AR, whose activation may produce opposite effects (for example, concerning tissue protection in inflammatory and cancer cells) and may produce effects that are species dependent, only a few molecules have reached preclinical investigation. Indeed, the most advanced A3AR antagonists remain in preclinical testing. Among the antagonists described above, compound OT-7999 is expected to enter clinical trials for the treatment of glaucoma, while several thiazole derivatives are in development as antiallergic, antiasthmatic and/or antiinflammatory drugs.

Castrate resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is associated with increased androgen receptor (AR) signaling often brought about by elevated intratumoral androgen biosynthesis and AR amplification. Inhibition of androgen biosynthesis and/or AR antagonism should be efficacious in the treatment of CRPC. AKR1C3 catalyzes the formation of potent AR ligands from inactive precursors and is one of the most upregulated genes in CRPC. AKR1C3 inhibitors should not inhibit the related isoforms, AKR1C1 and AKR1C2 that are involved in 5α-dihydrotestosterone inactivation in the prostate. We have previously developed a series of flufenamic acid analogs as potent and selective AKR1C3 inhibitors (Adeniji A.O. et al., J Med Chem. 2012, 55, 2311). Here we report the X-ray crystal structures of one lead compound 3-((4′-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) amino)benzoic acid (1) in complex with AKR1C3. Compound 1 adopts a similar binding orientation as flufenamic acid, however, its phenylamino ring projects deeper into a subpocket and confers selectivity over the other AKR1C isoforms. We exploited the observation that some flufenamic acid analogs also act as AR antagonists and synthesized a second generation inhibitor, 3-[4′-(nitronaphthalen-1-amino))benzoic acid (2). Compound 2 retained nanomolar potency and selective inhibition of AKR1C3 but also acted as an AR antagonist. It inhibited 5α-dihydrotestosterone stimulated AR reporter gene activity with an IC50 = 4.7 μM and produced a concentration dependent reduction in androgen receptor levels in prostate cancer cells. The in vitro and cell-based effects of compound 2 make it a promising lead for development of dual acting agent for CRPC. To illuminate the structural basis of AKR1C3 inhibition, we also report the crystal structure of the AKR1C3•NADP+•2 complex, which shows that compound 2 forms a unique double decker structure with AKR1C3.

The ribose moiety of adenine nucleotide 3′,5′-bisphosphate antagonists of the P2Y1 receptor has been successfully substituted with a rigid methanocarba ring system, leading to the conclusion that the North (N) ring conformation is preferred in receptor binding. Similarly, at P2Y2 and P2Y4 receptors, nucleotides constrained in the (N) conformation interact equipotently with the corresponding ribosides. We now have synthesized and examined as P2Y receptor ligands nucleotide analogues substituted with two novel ring systems: (1) a (N) locked-carbocyclic (cLNA) derivative containing the oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane ring system and (2) L-α-threofuranosyl derivatives. We have also compared potencies and preferred conformations of these nucleotides with the known anhydrohexitol-containing P2Y1 receptor antagonist MRS2283. A cLNA bisphosphate derivative MRS2584 21 displayed a Ki value of 22.5nM in binding to the human P2Y1 receptor, and antagonized the stimulation of PLC by the potent P2Y1 receptor agonist 2-methylthio-ADP (30nM) with an IC50 of 650nM. The parent cLNA nucleoside bound only weakly to an adenosine receptor (A3). Thus, this ring system afforded some P2Y receptor selectivity. A L-α-threofuranosyl bisphosphate derivative 9 displayed an IC50 of 15.3μM for inhibition of 2-methylthio-ADP-stimulated PLC activity. L-α-Threofuranosyl-UTP 13 was a P2Y receptor agonist with a preference for P2Y2 (EC50 = 9.9μM) versus P2Y4 receptors. The P2Y1 receptor binding modes, including rotational angles, were estimated using molecular modeling and receptor docking.

4-Phenylethynyl-6-phenyl-1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives are selective antagonists at human A3 adenosine receptors, with Ki values in a radioligand binding assay vs [125I]AB-MECA [N6-(4-amino-3-iodobenzyl)-5′-N-methylcarbamoyl-adenosine] in the submicromolar range. In this study, functionalized congeners of 1,4-dihydropyridines were designed as chemically reactive adenosine A3 antagonists, for the purpose of synthesizing molecular probes for this receptor subtype. Selectivity of the new analogues for cloned human A3 adenosine receptors was determined in radioligand binding in comparison to binding at rat brain A1 and A2A receptors. Benzyl ester groups at the 3- and/or 5-positions and phenyl groups at the 2- and/or 6-positions were introduced as potential sites for chain attachment. Structure–activity analysis at A3 adenosine receptors indicated that 3,5-dibenzyl esters, but not 2,6-diphenyl groups, are tolerated in binding. Ring substitution of the 5-benzyl ester with a 4-fluorosulfonyl group provided enhanced A3 receptor affinity resulting in a Ki value of 2.42 nM; however, a long-chain derivative containing terminal amine functionalization at the 4-position of the 5-benzyl ester showed only moderate affinity. This sulfonyl fluoride derivative appeared to bind irreversibly to the human A3 receptor (1 h incubation at 100 nM resulting in the loss of 56% of the specific radioligand binding sites), while the binding of other potent dihydropyridines and other antagonists was generally reversible. At the 3-position of the dihydropyridine ring, an amine-functionalized chain attached at the 4-position of a benzyl ester provided higher A3 receptor affinity than the corresponding 5-position isomer. This amine congener was also used as an intermediate in the synthesis of a biotin conjugate, which bound to A3 receptors with a Ki value of 0.60 μM.

On the basis of potent and selective binding affinity of truncated 4′-thioadenosine derivatives at the human A3 adenosine receptor (AR), their bioisosteric 4′-oxo derivatives were designed and synthesized from commercially available 2,3-O-isopropylidene-d-erythrono lactone. The derivatives tested in AR binding assays were substituted at the C2 and N6 positions. All synthesized nucleosides exhibited potent and selective binding affinity at the human A3 AR. They were less potent than the corresponding 4′-thio analogues, but showed higher selectivity to other subtypes. The 2-Cl series generally were better than the 2-H series in view of binding affinity and selectivity. Among compounds tested, compound 5d (X = Cl, R = 3-bromobenzyl) showed the highest binding affinity (Ki = 13.0±6.9 nM) at the hA3 AR with high selectivity (at least 1000-fold) in comparison to other AR subtypes. Like the corresponding truncated 4′-thio series, compound 5d antagonized the action of an agonist to inhibit forskolin-stimulated adenylate cyclase in hA3 AR-expressing CHO cells. Although the 4′-oxo series were less potent than the 4′-thio series, this class of human A3 AR antagonists is also regarded as another good template for the design of A3 AR antagonists and for further drug development.

A recent report showed that reversine treatment could induce murine myoblasts dedifferentiation into multipotent progenitor cells and inhibit proliferation of some tumors, and other reports showed that apoptosis of lung adenocarcinoma cells could be induced by aspirin. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the synergistic antitumor effects of reversine and aspirin on cervical cancer. The inhibition rate of reversine and aspirin on cervical cancer cell lines’ (HeLa and U14) was determined by MTT method, cell cycle of HeLa and U14 cells was analyzed by FACS, mitochondrial membrane potential of HeLa and U14 was detected using a JC-1 kit. HeLa and U14 colony formation was analyzed by soft agar colony formation assay. The expression of caspase-3, Bcl-2/Bax, cyclin D1 and p21 was detected by qRT-PCR and Western Blotting. Moreover, tumor weight and tumor volume was assessed using a murine model of cervical cancer with U14 cells subcutaneously (s.c.) administered into the neck, separately or combined with drug administration via the intraperitoneal (i.p.) route. The inhibition rate of cells in the combination group (10 μmol/L reversine, 10 mmol/L aspirin) increased significantly in comparison to that when the drugs were used alone (P

A variety of adenosine analogs activate phosphoinositide breakdown in a rat RBL-2H3 mast cell line. It is presumed that an A3-adenosine receptor is involved, since the phosphoinositide response is insensitive to xanthines. However, the very potent A3- receptor agonist 2-chloro-N6-iodobenzyl-N-methylcarboxamidoadenosine (2-CI-IBMECA) with an EC50 of 4.1 µM is about twofold less potent (and less efficacious) than N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA) with an EC50 of 2.1 µM. The other agents consisting of N6-p-aminophenylethyladenosine (APNEA), N6-iodobenzylMECA (IB-MECA), N6-R- phenylisopropyladenosine (R-PIA), 2-chloroadenosine, N6-benzyladenosine, N6- cyclohexyladenosine (CHA), N6-cyclohexylNECA (CHNECA), 2-(p- carboxyethylphenyl-ethylaminoNECA (CGS 21680), 1,3-dibutylxanthine 7-riboside-5′-N-methylcarboxamide (DBXRM), adenosine, and 8-bromoadenosine are all nearly equipotent with EC50 values of 5.5-13.9 µM. The rank order of potencies of the analogs in causing an elevation of intracellular calcium is quite different. The potent A3 receptor agonists 2-CI-IBMECA and IB-MECA with EC50 values of 0.07 and 0.11 µM, respectively, are about fourfold more potent than N6-cyclohexylNECA and about 15-fold more potent than NECA. The other analogs are comparable or somewhat less potent than NECA, some are less efficacious, and 8-bromoadenosine is inactive. The results suggest that stimulation of phosphoinositide breakdown by adenosine analogs in RBL-2H3 cells as measured by IP1 accumulation is not predictive of IP3-mediated elevations of intracellular calcium. Rank order of potency for the calcium response is consonant with intermediacy of A3-adenosine receptors, while the former, as measured by [3H]IP1-formation, probably reflects contributions from both an A3-mediated response and some other mechanism. Combinations of subthreshold concentrations of 2-CI-IBMECA with either the A1-selective agonist CHA or the A2A-selective agonist CGS 21680 caused a marked stimulation of phosphoinositide breakdown, providing further evidence for dual mechanisms. The selective A3-adenosine receptor antagonist 3,6-dichloro-2′-(isopropyloxy)-4′-methylflavone (MRS 1067) inhibits 2-CI-IBMECA- and NECA-elicited elevation of calcium levels, and had differential effects on phosphoinositide breakdown, blocking [3H]IP3 accumulation and either blocking (NECA) or having no effect (2-CI-IBMECA) on [3H]IP1 accumulation.

A series of functionalized congeners of adenosine based on N6-phenyladenosine, a potent A1-adenosine receptor agonist, was synthesized. Derivatives of the various congeners should be useful as receptor and histochemical probes and for the preparation of radioligands and affinity columns or as targeted drugs. N6-[4-(Carboxymethyl)phenyl]adenosine served as the starting point for synthesis of the methyl ester, the methyl amide, the ethyl glycinate, and various substituted anilides. One of the latter, N6-[4-[[[4-(carbomethoxymethyl)anilino]carbonyl]methyl]phenyl]adenosine, served as the starting point for the synthesis of another series of congeners including the methyl amide, the hydrazide, and the aminoethyl amide. The terminal amino function of the last congener was acylated to provide further analogues. The various congeners were potent competitive antagonists of binding of N6-[3H]cyclohexyladenosine to A1-adenosine receptors in rat cerebral cortical membranes. The affinity of the congener for the A1 receptor was highly dependent on the nature of the spacer group and the terminal moiety with Ki values ranging 1–100 nM. A biotinylated analogue had a Ki value of 11 nM. A conjugate derived from the Bolton–Hunter reagent had a Ki value of 4.5 nM. The most potent congener contained a terminal [(aminoethyl)amino]carbonyl function and had a Ki value of less than 1 nM.

Derivatives of the herpes simplex thymidine kinase inhibitor HBPG (2-phenylamino-9-(4-hydroxybutyl)-6-oxopurine) have been synthesized, and tested for inhibitory activity against recombinant enzymes (TK) from herpes simplex types 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2). The compounds inhibited phosphorylation of [3H]thymidine by both enzymes, but potencies differed quantitatively from those of HBPG, and were generally greater for HSV-2 than HSV-1 TKs. Changes in inhibitory potency were generally consistent with the inhibitor/substrate binding site structure based on published x-ray structures of HSV-1 TK. In particular, several 9-(4-aminobutyl) analogs with bulky tertiary amino substituents, were among the most potent inhibitors. Variable substrate assays showed that the most potent compound, 2-phenylamino-9-[4-(1-decahydroquinolyl)butyl]-6-oxopurine, was a competitive inhibitor, with Ki values of 0.03 and 0.005 gM against HSV-1 and HSV-2 TKs, respectively. The parent compound HBPG was uniquely active in viral infection models in mice, both against ocular HSV-2 reactivation and against HSV-1 and HSV-2 encephalitis. In assays lacking [3H]thymidine, HBPG was found to be an efficient substrate for the enzymes. The ability of the TKs to phosphorylate HBPG may relate to its antiherpetic activity in vivo.